No one embraces the remote workplace more than I, but it’s a DELIGHT to bring together folks who have been collaborating virtually for months. Mix in powerful workshops, collaboration, reflection, and time to network and enjoy each other’s company? Magic.
Some of my favorite takeaways from Greater Summit 2019:
Many in the nonprofit sector are so passionate about their mission, they want to step back and let the mission speak. But Colin Ryan challenged us to stay in the conversation: “Before we listen to what you say, we listen to who you are; we want to know more about you.” I loved listening to nonprofit leaders and volunteers share their personal connection to their organization’s mission. My partner in practicing this activity dreamed of becoming an animator when he was a kid; now he loves knowing that his animation work helps kids who are struggling through tough times. I still vividly remember his story, his enthusiasm for his organization, and his confidence in the impact of their work.
Innovative requires us to shake off some inhibitions, practice divergent thinking, and recognize our cognitive biases. Tayloe McDonald’s workshop got us all thinking about the ruts we may fall into and how to disrupt them. Her “To Don’t List” activity challenged ME to go without some of my favorite things (Google, coffee, texting) and figure out new ways to solve problems. At least one of our attendees has had access to Google for their whole life - I’m still curious to know whether they carried on the experiment!
Getting feedback from our nonprofit partners not only improves our services for future cohorts of nonprofits, it also strengthens our conviction that the work of supporting truly important early stage nonprofits in their world-changing work is profoundly worthwhile. Skills-based volunteers are able to provide concrete advice, reduce isolation, connect founders with resourcces, boost constructive thinking, capitalize on personal and organizational strengths, and build entrepreneurial mindset and self awareness. We’re excited about boosting opportunities for alumni to engage, including sight visits, founder stories, continued access to resources, and connections to new funders.
Thanks to the team who made it possible, the nonprofit leaders, SME volunteers, and board members who made time to travel, and our lovely hosts at Babson Executive Conference Center! Our summit wrap-up video is available on our YouTube Channel. We’ll be sharing success stories from our 2019 cohort members in the coming months, and the feedback they provided will inform our work with the 2020 cohort. For now, here are a few images of the summit, inspired by the Victor Borges quote that kicked off Colin’s workshop: “Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.”
